A NEW tower giving visitors better views of Whixall Moss has opened just in time for Christmas.

The tower opened on December 18 and standing five metres high, provides expansive views of the Fenn's and Whixall Mosses, part of the 2,500 acre Marches Mosses.

While the construction is complete, interpretation will be added between now and summer 2021.

This will help visitors to understand the creation, near-destruction and regeneration of the Mosses, as well as learn more about the immense value of the peat the tower stands on in the fight against the climate crisis.

Shropshire Wildlife Trust is leading the Mammoth Tower development as part of the overall BogLIFE project to regenerate the Mosses and provide more opportunities for visitors to share the mystery and the magic of the Mosses.

Helen Trotman of Shropshire Wildlife Trust said she was delighted to see the platform open.

"We're thrilled that the tower is complete and visitors can experience the view of the Mosses from the top of the tower," said Helen. "It truly gives people a bird's eye view of the awesome expanse of the Mosses.

"The viewing platform is the first of a series of new installations that are aimed at improving the experience for visitors.

"We're currently developing the interpretation that will support the platform and which will be in place by next summer."

The viewing platform is located within the Fenn's and Whixall National Nature Reserve (NNR), a short walk along the Llangollen Canal towpath from Morris' Bridge car park.